China Airlines Sets A New Benchmark In U.S.–Asia Travel By Connecting Taiwan And Phoenix Through Direct Long-Haul Flights Operated By The Airbus A350-900
Home»TOURISM NEWS» China Airlines Sets A New Benchmark In U.S.–Asia Travel By Connecting Taiwan And Phoenix Through Direct Long-Haul Flights Operated By The Airbus A350-900
Monday, July 28, 2025
China Airlines sets a new benchmark in U.S.–Asia travel by becoming the first Asian carrier to launch nonstop flights between Taiwan and Phoenix, Arizona, a move that directly enhances connectivity, business links, and tourism between East Asia and the southwestern United States, while showcasing the long-range capabilities and premium passenger experience of the Airbus A350-900.
China Airlines is set to become the first Asian carrier to introduce direct passenger service to Phoenix, Arizona, expanding its transpacific footprint with a new destination that has long been underserved by international airlines. This bold move will bring Taiwan and the southwestern United States closer than ever, with the airline deploying its state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 to operate the route.
The new nonstop service represents a strategic milestone in China Airlines’ North American growth plan. With an increasing number of Taiwanese travelers exploring inland U.S. destinations and more Americans seeking direct access to Asia from the Southwest, the route addresses rising two-way travel demand. The decision to use the A350-900 is also no coincidence—this aircraft offers a long-range capability combined with fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, making it ideal for the Taiwan–Phoenix sector.
This new route is designed to integrate seamlessly with China Airlines’ existing North American network, which already includes nonstop service to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Ontario (California), and Vancouver. The Phoenix launch not only fills a geographic gap in the airline’s network, but also opens up new opportunities for travelers connecting beyond Phoenix to other major cities across the U.S.
One of the key advantages of this route lies in the strengthened interline agreement with a U.S.-based carrier that maintains a major hub at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Thanks to this partnership, travelers arriving in Phoenix will be able to continue on to dozens of onward destinations through a simplified itinerary. Instead of rechecking baggage or transferring terminals, passengers can board their connecting flights directly from the same arrival terminal. This convenience is expected to appeal to international travelers seeking smoother transits and more efficient connections to cities in the American Southwest, Midwest, and beyond.
For passengers flying out of Taiwan, Phoenix becomes a new and accessible entry point into the heart of the United States. The route will also support business travel between emerging tech, manufacturing, and logistics sectors in both regions. The metropolitan Phoenix area has seen strong growth in industries such as semiconductors, aerospace, and renewable energy—sectors that also have strong links with Taiwan’s economy.
China Airlines’ decision to serve Phoenix reflects a broader trend of airlines diversifying their U.S. gateways beyond traditional coastal cities. As competition intensifies at major hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco, secondary cities with strong business and leisure demand are becoming increasingly attractive. Phoenix, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., fits this profile perfectly. With over 40 million annual passengers and a highly efficient airport layout, Sky Harbor provides an ideal platform for international carriers looking to enter new markets.
Beyond Phoenix, China Airlines is also doubling down on its presence in New York. The carrier plans to increase flight frequencies to JFK International Airport to accommodate higher passenger volumes. Additionally, it has announced its relocation to JFK’s newly constructed Terminal One, which is scheduled to open next year. The terminal promises upgraded amenities, faster passenger processing, and improved connectivity, which will elevate the carrier’s premium offering for eastbound travelers.
The Airbus A350-900, which will serve the Phoenix route, is central to China Airlines’ strategy of modernizing its fleet for long-haul travel. The aircraft features advanced aerodynamics, quieter engines, and next-generation cabin design. Passengers can expect a quieter, smoother ride with improved cabin pressure, mood lighting, and enhanced air quality. The plane’s layout also includes updated seating in all classes, including lie-flat business class seats, upgraded in-flight entertainment, and expanded storage space. The aircraft’s lower emissions and fuel consumption align with the airline’s push toward more sustainable aviation practices.
This new development reinforces China Airlines’ commitment to building stronger bridges between Taiwan and North America. As global travel recovers and demand for direct connectivity continues to rise, the airline is positioning itself to be a leader in long-haul transpacific service. By tapping into untapped markets like Phoenix and enhancing service at established hubs like New York, the carrier is creating new pathways for travelers on both sides of the Pacific.
The addition of Phoenix to the airline’s route map also sends a signal to the global aviation industry that regional U.S. cities are gaining traction as international gateways. These markets offer unique advantages, such as less congestion, lower operating costs, and faster turnaround times. For passengers, they offer a more personalized travel experience and often shorter total travel times compared to traditional connection points.
With the launch of this route, China Airlines is expected to attract a new wave of travelers looking for convenient, efficient, and comfortable transpacific options. Whether it’s business professionals heading to Arizona’s fast-growing corporate sector, tourists exploring the American Southwest, or families visiting relatives across borders, the new Phoenix service opens up countless travel possibilities.
China Airlines sets a new standard in U.S.–Asia connectivity by launching the first nonstop Taiwan–Phoenix route using the Airbus A350-900, enhancing travel, trade, and tourism between the two regions.
As the first Asian airline to serve Phoenix with direct flights, China Airlines not only strengthens its own global presence but also enhances Taiwan’s connectivity with the world. The route is expected to launch in the coming months, with booking options becoming available soon across all distribution channels.
Club Med Holding has appointed Stéphane Maquaire as its new president and CEO, effective 21 July 2025. The French national succeeds Henri Giscard d’Estaing, whose two-decade tenure saw the company through a period of transformation and global expansion.
The decision was made following a formal succession process, led by d’Estaing and endorsed by the Board. Maquaire, previously Executive Director for Carrefour Brazil and Latin America, brings extensive experience in premium brand development and international operations.
Based in Paris, he will guide Club Med Holding through its next phase of growth, with a continued focus on maintaining the brand’s French identity and values. Maquaire has already met with the company’s three Deputy CEOs to establish operational priorities.
“In Stéphane, we have chosen a leader with deep experience in the consumer sector and a remarkable international track record,” said Xiaoliang Xu, co-CEO of Fosun International and chairman of Club Med Holding.
Maquaire described Club Med as “a culture, a spirit, a way of living and sharing,” adding: “I am honoured by the opportunity to lead this unique company into its next chapter of success.”
Two new Board members have also been named: Philippe Heim, a veteran of Société Générale and La Banque Postale, and Takuya Yamada, Chairman of IDERA Capital and close collaborator on Club Med’s Japanese resorts.
Home»TRAVEL ALERT» Summer Travel Alert: The Shocking Risk of Measles During Trips to Southeast Asia and Other Affected Regions – How to Stay Safe and Protect Yourself
Monday, July 28, 2025
Measles, being an extremely contagious viral disease, also spreads with the increased travel this summer between countries. South Korea has also seen 40 percent more measles cases this year — 65 as of July 5 — than it had by the same time last year, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said. Seven in 10 patients had history of foreign travel and have been largely known to have visited the following countries, Vietnam, Thailand, Italy, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia in popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia.
In addition to the surge in cases in the Eastern Mediterranean, measles outbreaks are also accelerating in Southeast Asia, where countries such as Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam have seen significant increases. Travellers — particularly those who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated — may be at increased risk of coming into contact with the virus when visiting these areas, the KDCA also said, placing them at increased risk of bringing the disease back to their home country.
What is Measles?
Measles is a viral respiratory illness caused by the measles morbillivirus. The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or even by breathing the same air. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with over 90% of susceptible individuals contracting the virus after exposure.
Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and begin with fever, a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). This is followed by a distinctive red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. A hallmark sign of measles is the appearance of small white spots inside the mouth.
Severe complications can arise from measles, including pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, and in rare cases, encephalitis or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which can be fatal. With travel on the rise, it’s essential for global travelers to stay informed and prepared, as even brief visits to outbreak regions can expose them to the virus.
The Growing Global Measles Threat
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles remains a significant global health threat. Approximately 360,000 cases were reported worldwide in 2024, with outbreaks particularly prevalent in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. In the Western Pacific region, countries like Mongolia, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia reported notably high incidences of the disease in 2025.
For instance, Cambodia reported 1,097 measles cases, while Laos had 288, and Malaysia recorded 336 cases. This resurgence of measles is partly due to declining global vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving gaps in immunity. As international travel rebounds, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated travelers are more vulnerable to contracting and spreading the virus, sparking secondary outbreaks.
Who is Most at Risk?
Of the 65 cases that were acquired in South Korea, adults accounted for the highest proportion — 76.9 percent — while more than half (55.4 percent) either had not been vaccinated or did not remember their vaccination history. Babies under 12 months, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly immuno-suppressed and also should not travel if at all avoidable in the region, where measles can have serious consequences.
If you’re traveling to a place where there are outbreaks of measles, be sure to get news about the risks and take the appropriate precautions. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself.
How to Prevent Measles While Traveling
Measles is preventable with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The vaccine is typically given in two doses—one at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. For infants under 12 months who are traveling to high-risk areas, the KDCA recommends an accelerated vaccination between 6 to 11 months of age.
If your vaccination history is uncertain or incomplete, it is recommended to get the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before traveling. This ensures that you are fully protected against the disease, reducing the risk of exposure and transmission.
In addition to vaccination, travelers can protect themselves by practicing good hygiene. This includes frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and wearing masks in crowded public areas. If you develop symptoms such as fever, rash, or respiratory issues within three weeks of returning from an outbreak region, seek medical attention immediately. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your travel history, especially if you suspect measles.
Public Health Recommendations for Travelers
Medical institutions have been advised to report any suspected cases of measles to local public health centers promptly. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the virus and protect other travelers.
KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mi emphasized the importance of being prepared for travel, stating, “Please make sure your measles immunizations are up to date before you go abroad. And if you suspect any symptoms after travel, protect others by visiting a medical facility promptly with a mask on.”
Travelers should also consider checking with their healthcare provider for updated travel health recommendations, especially when planning trips to Southeast Asia or regions with high measles activity.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Plan Ahead
And with summer travel in high gear, the risk of getting the measles in outbreak hot zones will increase. As the world continues to rebound from the pandemic, vaccination rates have lagged behind, so it’s more important than ever to make sure you and your loved ones are protected when you travel overseas. You don’t have to worry about catching measles if you’re current on your vaccinations and practice good hygiene while traveling.
Preparation and awareness are key, whether you’re traveling to Southeast Asia, Europe or a hot vacation destination this winter. Remember to be safe and that is also applies to health and make sure you and everybody around you is safe as you experience the world.
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka | Image credit: sander traa/Unsplash
In a recent push to fuel economic recovery, Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for travellers from 40 countries, including the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, the UAE, Iran, and Pakistan. The move, confirmed by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath on July 25, 2025, follows Cabinet approval last week to expand the free visa scheme beyond the original list of seven nations.
Since March 2023, Sri Lanka has offered free 30-day tourist visas to citizens of India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. The programme, initially a six-month pilot, has been extended and now widened significantly. Eligible travellers must still apply for an electronic travel authorisation, but will no longer be required to pay visa fees.
While Sri Lanka expects to forgo around INR 5,484.6 crore (USD 66 million) in annual visa revenue, Herath says the potential gains from increased footfall outweigh the short-term loss. “We have stabilised the economy, and through policy changes in tourism, we aim to ensure steady growth in arrivals,” he said.
Citizens of the following countries can now travel to Sri Lanka visa-free:
Sneha Chakraborty is a journalist and photographer covering how travel intersects with food, culture, ..Read Moreand identity. Her reporting has appeared in National Geographic Traveller India, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue India, and Hindustan Times, where she spent two years on staff as a correspondent covering travel and culture. She is an alumna of the University of Westminster`s Westminster School of Media, Arts and Design. Currently based in Delhi, she grew up in various cities across India and has lived in Amsterdam, and London. Read Less
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